TNN | BOMBAY TIMES (May 29, 2020)

Prasoon Joshi, Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), says they have started focusing on measures to support the film fraternity, which is grappling with the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.

“These are challenging times and the feature film industry is equally impacted. We, at CBFC, are monitoring the situation concerning films certification. Although the theatrical release of films has been affected, there are some filmmakers and distributors who are keen to explore the option of bringing their films on satellite and cable TV platforms. We have focused on how to bring in increased efficiency by taking prudent measures,” says Prasoon.

He adds, “We have, in a calibrated and mindful way and adhering to the guidelines, resumed feature film screenings in most of our CBFC offices, except Mumbai, at this point. This, as would be understood, is due to the increased risk of the Coronavirus spread that Mumbai is contending with. Keeping this issue in mind, we are facilitating review of Mumbai region’s films in other CBFC offices.”

To help films that are dubbed in other languages, the CBFC is taking distinct measures. “For the time being, in case of dubbed films, the producers would be able to get them examined at CBFC offices, which are in closer proximity. Few other measures are also under consideration and the CBFC continues to efficiently work and adapt to the current challenges.”
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MEASURES TAKEN BY CBFC

- To ensure that filmmakers, who want to release films on cable or satellite platforms, aren’t inconvenienced
- Resuming feature film screenings in most CBFC offices, except Mumbai, due to the Coronavirus spread in the city
- Facilitating review of Mumbai region’s films in other CBFC offices
- In case of dubbed films, producers will be able to get them examined at CBFC offices closer to them